Neutral safety switch

Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros.

The neutral safety switch (trans-axle range switch) is located on the top of the trans-axle. I attached a picture of its location

Let me know if this helps. Also, a faulty switch will set a diagnostic trouble code. If the check engine light was staying on, you may want to scan the computer to see if one exist.

Here is a quick video that shows how to scan a computer:

https://youtu.be/b2IJGfImVvw

I realize most people don't own a scanner, but often times parts stores will lend or rent one to you. It's just a thought.

Also, here is a link that shows how to check one of these switches. You may find it helpful.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-neutral-safety-switch-works

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe

Thank you. I will give that a shot.

Happy to help. Let me know if that helps or if you have other questions.

Joe

I changed the switch, and it still won't start. Maybe I need to check the connections by the gear shift?

Welcome back:

I did some digging and found if it doesn't start after switch replacement, it may need to go through a neutral relearn. This requires a scanner. I have to be honest, I have never had this happen, but under technical service bulletins, I found this. Before we assume this needs done, confirm the lever is properly positioned. See picture 1

RANGE SWITCH "N" POSITION LEARNING:

^ Stop the vehicle, move the shift lever to "N" and set the parking brake.

^ Turn the ignition switch "ON (engine off)."

^ Loosen the nut on the shift cable. Align the dot (o) on the shift lever to the "N" mark on the TCU.

Tighten the nut on the shift cable.

Picture 1

^ Attach the GDS or Hi-Scan Pro.

Range Switch "N" Position Learning (GDS):


Picture 2

^ Follow the instructions on the screen and confirm the test indicates "Completed."

Range Switch "N" Position Learning
(Hi-Scan Pro):

^ Select "ADAPTIVE PROCEDURE OF N RANGE." Press "ENTER.":


Picture 3

^ Confirm the test indicates "Completed."

^ Move the shift lever from "P" to "D" and confirm the shift position indicator on the dash reads correctly. Confirm the correct gear indication using the Hi-Scan or GDS.

^ Move the shift lever from "P" to "D" and confirm the shift position indicator on the dash reads correctly. Confirm the correct gear indication using the Hi-Scan or GDS.

________________

Let me know if this helps.

Joe

Thanks. I'll give that a try.

Happy to help. Let me know how it works out for you or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe

Was told it could be a faulty ignition switch, so I changed that to no avail. Did discover the car will start if you wiggle the wires down near the fuse box and near the floorboard. I looked at the wires and didn't notice any bare wires or anything. So, not sure what the issue is, but the car does start about 50% of the time on the first try, and will start after wiggling he wires a little.

Welcome back:

Either something is loose or one of the pins has pushed in. What I want you to do is this. When it fails, move one of the three wires at a time so we can narrow it down to the specific wire. Also, please let me know the wire colors. That way I can try to identify it via wiring schematics.

Take care and I'll watch for your reply.

Joe